Tracking a very hot and humid Tuesday

Good morning and happy Tuesday.

We're starting off with a damp morning across northwest Missouri and northeast Kansas as scattered showers and a few thunderstorms move through the area. The rain will continue to push northeast through the morning hours before gradually clearing out, leaving behind hot, humid and breezy conditions for the remainder of the day.

Temperatures are already in the upper 70s this morning and will continue to climb quickly. A Heat Advisory is in effect today as heat index values are expected to reach between 106 and 108 degrees this afternoon and evening.

By lunchtime, temperatures will be in the upper 80s to low 90s, with humidity making it feel much hotter. High temperatures this afternoon will reach near 93 degrees, while heat index values climb well into the triple digits. If you plan to spend time outdoors, be sure to stay hydrated, take frequent breaks and limit prolonged exposure to the heat.

Cloud cover will begin increasing tonight ahead of our next weather system.

Attention then turns to Wednesday, when another round of showers and thunderstorms is expected to develop along an approaching cold front. A Level 2 out of 5 severe weather risk is in place for portions of the area, with storms developing Wednesday afternoon and evening. The greatest storm coverage is expected east of Interstate 35 as the front moves through.

Behind the front, slightly cooler air will arrive late in the week. High temperatures will fall back into the upper 80s by Thursday, with rain chances decreasing by Friday. Drier conditions are expected to return heading into the weekend and early next week.